Mana Candidate for Ikaroa Rawhiti Opens Up About Suicide

“This week suicide has claimed
yet more lives in whanau and communities in Ikaroa Rawhiti,
and my heart goes out to those who are dealing with such a
tragic loss”, says MANA candidate for Te Ikaroa Rawhiti,
Te Hamua Nikora. "For those whanau, and for any who are
feeling life has got to a really low place, please know that
the MANA offices in Gisborne and Hastings are a place to go
to for help."

"It's so important for us to come together
for support and sustenance, and to figure out a path
forward."

"I know myself, having reached some pretty bleak
times after the death of my beautiful Mum and during my
recovery from cancer, how suicide can seem like the only way
to go - but life can and does get better through knowing
others are there."

"Suicide is such a hard thing to talk
about - but talking about it's important. Sometimes we think
that talking about it will make it worse, that it will plant
the idea or push a person over the edge. But I know too,
that asking if someone's okay or giving them the chance to
open up and talk without judgement, can be a really good
thing."

"My message is a simple one whanau, don't be
scared to talk with each other about suicide or let someone
vent their pain. Simply getting it out can help so
much."

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